Liberty Buick GMC: ‘Tis the Season to Save Money on a New Car

December 06, 2018 · 9 min read

The end of the year is an important time for savvy car buyers. Typically, this is when dealers are trying to get rid of the year’s stock to make way for the new models, often leading to deals that reduce car prices by hundreds, if not thousands. It is also a good time to buy because most dealerships are trying to set prices low enough to maximize the chances of meeting their annual sales goals. Don’t Wait to Buy that New Vehicle You have done your research and know which vehicle best suits your needs. You have spent time exploring prices and what you can best afford. Now imagine yourself walking into the car lot and eyeing that vehicle you have been wanting. The test drive is over and it is the end of the day. You may be tired and not in the mood to deal with a salesman, but you came with the intent of getting a good deal and you, the savvy consumer, are determined to make that happen. Buying at the end of the year is propitious on a much larger scale because it is typically when dealers are most anxious to close a sale in order to meet or exceed the year’s quota. Go vehicle shopping the last two weeks in December and you will find yourself negotiating over a sale that must be made. These two weeks are the absolute best in timing, as new models will be arriving soon and the ones remaining must be sold to make room. As with any significant purchase, research, patience, and mediation skills are necessary. And in a perfect vehicle-buying situation, you the customer, as well as the salesperson, are both benefiting from the process. Waiting until the end of the workday is good, holding out until the end of the month is better, but if you can withstand the temptation to buy until those last two weeks in December, you will be able to give yourself quite a nice post holiday gift and for the best possible price. What We Have to Offer Though this time of year is typically best for purchasing, there are no guarantees that you will save a lot of money. What mostly determines the amount of sale you will find is the make of the car itself. The plain and simple truth is this: some car manufacturers have better end-of-year deals than others, and it is your job — as the smart buyer — to find that make and model best for you and your pocket book. (Luckily, we have already done that work for you.) Buick and GMC win for having some of the best deals in pricing this December. Not only are Buick and GMC doing a bang up job at re-introducing its line-up to the general public with innovative designs and superior performance, but they also know the importance of offering a great deal. For instance, this December you can finance varying models for as low as zero percent and get large cash-back rebates (be sure to check out other hidden dealer rebates too). Here are some examples of what you can save this year at Liberty Buick GMC:

NEW 2019 BUICK ENCLAVE FWD

SALE PRICE: $41,757
MSRP: $48,180

new 2019 buick encore essence fwd

SALE PRICE: $26,698
MSRP: $34,680

NEW 2019 BUICK ENVISION AWD 4DR PREMIUM II

SALE PRICE: $37,778
MSRP: $48,030

NEW 2018 BUICK REGAL TOURX PREFERRED AWD

SALE PRICE: $29,401
MSRP: $38,540

NEW 2019 BUICK CASCADA 2DR CONV PREMIUM

SALE PRICE: $33,908
MSRP: $36,995

NEW 2019 GMC Sierra 2500 HD 4WD Denali

SALE PRICE: $64,568
MSRP: $72,155

NEW 2018 GMC Canyon 4wd sle

SALE PRICE: $32,000
MSRP: $38,575

NEW 2019 GMC Acadia awd denali

SALE PRICE: $44,735
MSRP: $53,685

NEW 2019 GMC terrain fwd denali

SALE PRICE: $35,060
MSRP: $43,410

NEW 2018 GMC yukon 4wd slt

SALE PRICE: $56,655
MSRP: $68,685

In addition to our sales on new cars and trucks, you can also find great deals on our used car lot! Check out our certified pre-owned inventory and assortment of makes and models available now. Liberty Buick GMC Has Options! Most people finance, a smaller percentage lease, and even fewer pay cash; but this is not indicative of which is best, as each option has its own set of advantages. Deciding on your method of purchase is highly dependent upon details such as how long you wish to own the vehicle, your current credit score, and how much cash you have in the bank. Regardless of your financial situation, each option should be scrutinized before making such a significant purchase.

Paying cash: A positive to this method is a lack of worry over charges or finance fees; also, when using cash, you hold the title (rather than the bank), making for less hassle if you choose to sell the vehicle later down the road. And, first and foremost, you do not have to make monthly payments! A negative aspect to paying cash is that most often people don’t have such a large sum stowed away, and if they do, it may need to be set aside for another weighty buy — a house, college, nest egg…the list is never ending.

Leasing: This option usually allows for a new model annually, and the vehicle is typically always under warranty, eliminating worry over engine or other performance problems. The monthly payments for leasing are often less than financing. Additionally, there are highly beneficial tax cuts when the leased vehicle is used primarily for business purposes. When leasing, you do not have to worry about making a down payment — assuming your credit is good enough. Negative aspects to leasing include a requirement of more than simply having basic insurance: often dealerships will require a specific amount or type of insurance, resulting in a higher monthly fee. Also, although a leased vehicle is covered with warranty, it is not covered for scratches and dents, which will have to be paid out of pocket.

Financing: The most commonly used method of purchase for Americans, this option allows you to use the bank’s money, freeing up your disposable income and the time it can take to save enough money to pay cash. Credit scores determine the type of financing available (the higher the score, the lower the interest rate), and there are usually nice warranty packages out there for financers. The down side to financing? Your monthly payments are usually a little higher than when leasing, and there is usually a hefty down payment required.

How to Shop For a Great Deal There are a few things to watch out for when car shopping this holiday season. In particular, if you are in need of an SUV and have been waiting for sale season to shop, here are just a few key tips to help you along in your shopping:

In order to get the very best prices on SUVs this season, there are a few crucial steps that need to be taken. The first thing we suggest is if you have a trade-in vehicle, get it appraised first. A quick stop-in at CarMax, or even a detailed online search, can provide you with the exact amount your trade-in is worth. You can even stop in to our service department to see if it might be beneficial to have a little work done on your trade-in first. Sometimes this can bring up the value of the car. What sort of things will your service technician look for? Anything that is not performing properly. He or she will also look for things that could go wrong in the near future. Intricate pieces like engine belts, hoses, and plugs. These all need replacing every so often, and if you wait until they completely malfunction you could be left stranded. And even worse, they could cause damage to other parts of the engine. Don’t wait until something breaks. Let a professional look over your vehicle so that you can keep it running for years to come. This then becomes one less thing you have to worry about when shopping. Now you know the price to expect for your trade-in and you can perform a more realistic SUV search with a specific price in mind.
Have an idea of the type of SUV you would like before you begin shopping. As with anything else, it’s a good idea to have a plan before you visit Liberty Buick GMC. Of course we can help you if you are unsure of what you would like, but the more you know coming in, the faster we can get you in your new ride! Even having a rough idea of your price range, make and model, as well as, color options can be a huge help when walking around on the lot.
One of the most common hang-ups when buying a car is the paperwork. Having this in order before you purchase will keep you from the headache of trying to navigate through your documents at the last minute. Make sure you have your driver’s license, proof of auto insurance, payment method, and any paperwork you may have on your trade-in. Also, don’t forget to double-check the expiration dates on your insurance card. You would be amazed at how many times this is the culprit for causing frustration and a delay in driving away with a nice, new SUV.
Lastly, if the process of buying takes a bit, don’t get frustrated. For a purchase such as this to take place properly, it often takes a little time. The most important thing is to be sure everything is done correctly so there are no unpleasant surprises later. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or get clarity on anything even a little confusing. Read the fine print, and make sure you are aware of all your sale bonuses, cash-back offers, and warranties.

We want your experience to as pleasant as possible. We always welcome questions, so don’t be nervous about the process of buying a new car, whether it’s an SUV, sedan, or pickup we have you covered. Come See Us Today! With the holiday season on our heals, it can be difficult to justify car shopping in the midst of all the other soon to be made purchases. But, those who know how to shop, who know that sometimes the most money saved is when it is used at the most inopportune time, understand that these last few months of the year are critical. Dealerships are clearing out what they can and it’s for the benefit of the buyer. When you buy local you save on service, especially when you shop at Liberty Buick GMC where they “will make sure you get the best price when you purchase and the best service throughout the year.” Don’t wait any longer! This is the very best time to purchase a new or used vehicle. Come into Liberty Buick GMC today, visit us online at clickliberty.com, or call 704.708.8000. As Charlotte’s largest Buick and GMC dealer we have exceptional prices across the lot.

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Apr 24, 2026 in Buick

The Real Cost of Waiting: How Fuel Prices and Tariffs Are Shaping Vehicle Prices in the Carolinas

The Real Cost of Waiting in Charlotte: What’s Driving Vehicle Prices Higher If you are planning to buy a vehicle this year, it is worth paying attention to something most people overlook. Prices are not just influenced by demand. They are being pushed by rising fuel costs and global trade pressures, and once those forces start moving, they tend to carry forward for months. What Global Fuel Disruptions Mean for Your Next Vehicle What does the Strait of Hormuz have to do with your next vehicle purchase, and why should you care? More than most people realize. When that shipping lane slows down, fuel prices go up quickly. What follows is less obvious but more important. Even if everything reopened today, the effects would not disappear. Higher fuel and transportation costs are already working their way through the system, and that process usually takes three to six months to fully show up in the price of parts, goods, and vehicles. By the time it reaches the dealership, those increases are already built in. That is how this kind of economy works. It moves slowly, but once it starts, it is difficult to reverse. No matter how you feel about the reasons behind it, the outcome is the same. Costs rise, and they tend to stay elevated longer than expected. Here is the part most people miss. There is a window before the broader market reacts, before inventory tightens, before pricing fully adjusts. That window is where the advantage is. Most buyers will not connect the dots until months from now, when prices are already higher and options are more limited. If you are paying attention, this is your opportunity to move ahead of that curve. Securing the right vehicle now, especially one that helps manage fuel costs over time, is not about rushing into a decision. It is about making a well-timed move while conditions are still in your favor. Tariffs Are Adding to the Upward Pressure Fuel costs are only part of the equation. Economists and suppliers estimate tariffs could add around $3,000 per vehicle on average. For full-size trucks and SUVs, that impact can be even more noticeable due to: Increased material requirements Advanced technology and components Higher transportation costs These increases tend to show up gradually, but once they do, they are rarely temporary. Why This Matters for Drivers in Charlotte and the Carolinas In Charlotte and across North and South Carolina, drivers rely heavily on: Full-size trucks for work and towing SUVs for family travel and daily use Longer commutes across a growing metro area That means both the purchase price and fuel efficiency play a major role in long-term cost. The Opportunity Right Now for High Inventory at Low Prices Current inventory was largely priced before the full impact of these cost increases. That creates a window where buyers can: Lock in Today’s Pricing Avoid Future Adjustments Choose From a Wider Selection of Available Vehicles For buyers who are paying attention, that timing matters. GMC Options That Balance Power and Efficiency If you are looking to stay ahead of rising costs while maintaining capability and comfort, these GMC models stand out: GMC Sierra 1500 (Duramax Diesel) – Strong towing capability with impressive fuel efficiency for its class GMC Acadia – A refined SUV with practical fuel economy for families GMC Terrain – Efficient, versatile, and well-suited for daily driving GMC Yukon – Full-size capability with improved efficiency and premium comfort These vehicles are built not just for performance, but for long-term value. Market shifts like rising fuel costs and tariffs do not happen all at once, but once they begin, they tend to stay in motion. Waiting can feel like the cautious choice, but in this environment it often means: Paying more later Facing higher operating costs Having fewer options available For drivers in Charlotte and across the Carolinas, making a well-timed decision now can help you stay ahead of those changes and get more value out of your next vehicle. GMC Trucks Charlotte Buick GMC SUV Buyers Start Here Charlotte NC Car Buying - Preowned Buyers Start Here!

Dec 17, 2025 in Buick

Liberty Buick GMC Matthews NC - End-of-Year Car Buying Tips

Your Ultimate End-of-Year Car Buying Guide — Liberty Buick GMC in Matthews & Charlotte, NC Serving Matthews, Charlotte, and the surrounding North Carolina communities, Liberty Buick GMC is proud to help buyers make confident decisions during one of the most important vehicle-buying seasons of the year. If you’re planning to purchase a vehicle during the holidays or before year-end, you’re shopping at a time when strong incentives, model-year transitions, and inventory movement can work in your favor. However, the buyers who get the best deals are the ones who come prepared and understand how dealerships evaluate purchases and trade-ins. This end-of-year car-buying guide combines insider knowledge from Greg Mongelli, Lead Sales and Business Management Manager at Liberty Buick GMC, to help both first-time buyers and experienced shoppers get the most value from their purchase. Start Your Year-End Buying Process at Liberty Buick GMC Before visiting the dealership, taking a few proactive steps can save time and reduce stress. Shoppers are encouraged to browse current inventory online at clickliberty.com, get pre-approved for financing, and research their trade-in value ahead of time. These steps create clarity and confidence when it’s time to make a decision. A strong example of current year-end inventory is the 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 Pro, a versatile crew cab truck that offers durability, capability, and long-term value. View this vehicle here: https://www.clickliberty.com/new-Matthews-2025-GMC-Sierra%2B1500-Pro-3GTNHAED6SG272518 End-of-Year Buying Tip #1: Preparation Is Everything Whether you are entering the car market for the first time or upgrading your current vehicle, preparation gives you a clear advantage. One of the most common issues dealerships encounter is buyers arriving without proper identification. A valid driver’s license or state-issued ID is required to move forward with financing and documentation. Forgetting this simple item can delay or prevent completing a purchase. Insurance information is another key detail that buyers frequently overlook. Having your insurance provider selected and bringing relevant contact details, quotes, or policy information allows the transaction to move smoothly and avoids unnecessary delays during a busy holiday season. For younger buyers or those with limited credit history, bringing a co-buyer can significantly improve financing options. A co-buyer can help secure better rates, improve approval odds, and open additional purchasing opportunities. For more “Insider Tips” Watch Greg’s Video on How To Get Your Best Deal https://youtube.com/shorts/4VToOliuFss End-of-Year Buying Tip #2: How Dealerships Really Value Trade-Ins Trade-ins play a major role in end-of-year deals, especially for buyers looking to reduce their overall purchase cost. Many people assume trade-in values are based solely on mileage and condition, but dealerships evaluate vehicles using a broader set of criteria. Factors such as vehicle age, trim level, accident history, maintenance records, and market data all contribute to a trade-in evaluation. However, one of the most overlooked elements is local market demand. If a vehicle is popular and sells quickly in the Matthews and Charlotte area, it may be valued higher than expected. If resale demand is lower, the trade-in value may come in below what an owner anticipates. This is not arbitrary; it reflects real-world resale potential in the local market. During the end-of-year season, demand for certain vehicles can shift due to weather, lifestyle needs, and inventory availability. Trucks and SUVs, for example, often perform well in regional markets, which can positively influence trade-in values. For more “Insider Tips” Watch Greg’s Video on How To Get Your Best Trade-In Deal End-of-Year Buying Tip #3: Timing Is More Than Just the Calendar While December is widely known as a strong buying month, the best deals are not tied to a single day. Inventory levels, manufacturer incentives, and buyer demand can change weekly throughout the holiday season. Successful buyers focus on readiness rather than waiting for a specific date. Knowing your budget, understanding financing options, and being flexible with vehicle selection can significantly improve outcomes. It’s also important to evaluate the entire deal, not just the monthly payment. Trade-in value, interest rate, incentives, and long-term ownership costs all contribute to the overall value of your purchase. End-of-Year Buying Tip #4: Transparency Leads to Better Results Open communication between buyers and dealership professionals helps create a smoother experience. Being upfront about budget, credit history, trade-in expectations, and timing allows the sales team to recommend realistic options and avoid unnecessary back-and-forth. Honest conversations help ensure the vehicle you choose fits both your financial goals and your lifestyle needs. End-of-Year Buying Tip #5: Ask Questions and Stay Informed Buying a vehicle is a significant investment, and informed buyers tend to be more satisfied long term. Asking questions about incentives, financing structures, trade-in calculations, and vehicle features helps eliminate uncertainty. At Liberty Buick GMC, education and transparency are a priority. The goal is to ensure every customer understands their options and feels confident in their decision. Why Trucks Continue to Be a Strong Choice Trucks remain among the most popular vehicles in the North Carolina market. Models like the GMC Sierra are known for strong resale value, versatility, and long-term reliability. For buyers considering a trade-in or new purchase, this category often provides strong value retention. The 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 Pro currently available at Liberty Buick GMC is a solid example of a truck that balances capability with modern features, making it a practical choice for both work and everyday driving. Vehicle details can be viewed here: https://www.clickliberty.com/new-Matthews-2025-GMC-Sierra%2B1500-Pro-3GTNHAED6SG272518 Final Thoughts on Year-End Car Buying The end-of-year buying season presents real opportunities, but the best results come from preparation, understanding the process, and working with experienced professionals. Whether you are purchasing your first vehicle, trading in an existing one, or looking to take advantage of year-end incentives, Liberty Buick GMC in Matthews and Charlotte, NC is here to help guide you through every step. To explore inventory, value your trade, or begin the financing process, visit clickliberty.com.

The Hidden Battery Issue That Costs Drivers Hundreds Every Year

Oct 29, 2025 in Buick

Stop Killing Your Car Battery! Pro Mechanic Shares What Drivers Always Get Wrong

Car Battery Care: Tips, Tricks & Troubleshooting with Scott Shirley at Liberty Buick GMC Your vehicle’s battery is the heart of its electrical system and neglecting it can leave you stranded at the worst possible time. To help drivers stay powered up, Scott Shirley, Lead Auto Mechanic and Service Manager at Liberty Buick GMC, shared his expert insights in our recent video on battery maintenance. In this post, we’ll expand on Scott’s key advice with practical maintenance tips, troubleshooting steps, and must-know facts every car owner should understand. Common Signs Your Battery Might Be Failing Before a battery completely dies, it usually gives a few warning signs: Slow engine crank: The starter motor struggles or hesitates before the engine catches. Dim headlights or interior lights: Low voltage reduces brightness when the car is off. Dashboard battery light: Often indicates a charging system problem, not just the battery. Swollen battery case or corrosion: Heat, overcharging, or leaks can cause visible damage. Clicking noise when starting: Suggests the battery doesn’t have enough power for the starter. Scott Shirley recommends addressing even mild symptoms early. “If your car sounds slower to start, it’s already telling you something — don’t wait until it won’t start at all.” Preventative Maintenance & Best Practices A few simple steps can dramatically extend the life of your car battery: Inspect regularly. Check for corrosion, dirt buildup, or loose cables every few months. Keep it clean. Use a brush and a mix of baking soda and water to remove terminal buildup. Secure the battery. Make sure it’s tightly mounted to prevent vibration damage. Drive longer distances occasionally. Short trips don’t give the alternator enough time to recharge the battery. Avoid parasitic drain. Turn off lights and unplug accessories before leaving the car. Test annually. Have your battery conductance-tested at least once a year, especially before winter or summer extremes. Pro Tip from Scott: “Batteries don’t like extremes. A 110-degree day or freezing morning can finish off a weak one fast.” Step-by-Step: How to Check Your Car Battery Follow these easy steps to inspect and maintain your battery safely: Turn off your engine and open the hood. Look for corrosion around terminals and cables. Check cable tightness — wiggle gently; they shouldn’t move. Read the date code on the top or side — batteries over 4 years old may be due for replacement. Use a voltmeter: 12.6 V = fully charged 12.4 V = partially charged Below 12.0 V = discharged or failing Clean terminals if needed (always disconnect negative (–) first, reconnect it last). Apply anti-corrosion spray or petroleum jelly on terminals before reconnecting. Always wear eye protection and gloves when working around a car battery. Troubleshooting Chart: Common Battery & Starting Issues Myths & Misconceptions The Hidden Battery Issues That Costs Drivers Hundreds Every Year Myth: “My battery is fine because it’s new.” Truth: Even new batteries can fail early due to extreme heat, vibration, or improper charging. Age isn’t the only factor — how and where you drive plays a big role in battery health. Myth: “Jump-starting fixes the problem.” Truth: A jump-start only gets your car running temporarily. It doesn’t solve the underlying issue, which could be a failing alternator, bad connections, or a battery that can no longer hold a charge. Myth: “All batteries are the same.” Truth: Every vehicle requires a specific battery type with the correct cold-cranking amps (CCA), size, and terminal layout. Using the wrong one can shorten lifespan and cause electrical issues. Myth: “Short trips recharge the battery.” Truth: In reality, short drives often do the opposite — the alternator doesn’t run long enough to fully recharge the battery. Over time, this can lead to a weak or drained battery even if you drive daily. Final Advice from Scott Shirley “Think of your battery like your heart — it keeps everything running, but you can’t see when it’s getting weak. A five-minute check can save you a hundred-dollar tow.” Before seasonal changes, visit Liberty Buick GMC’s Service Center for a complimentary battery and charging system inspection. Proper maintenance today means fewer surprises tomorrow. Watch, Learn & Share Watch Scott Shirley's Batter Maintenance Tips Schedule your next service at Liberty Buick GMC - Certified GMC & Buick Service.

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